" CHRISTIANITY 101" THIS IS MY PRAYER OF HOPE TO THINK AND DO ALL IN LOVE! WHATSOEVER THINGS THAT ARE TRUE, HONEST, JUST, PURE, LOVELY, OF GOOD REPORT, IF THERE BE ANY VIRTUE, AND IF THERE BE ANY WAY TO GIVE PRAISE TO GOD, THESE ARE THE THINGS I TRY TO THINK ABOUT…BASED ON PHILLIPIANS 4:8 I CLAIM THIS BASED BY ALL OF GODS WORD, PRAYING MY THOUGHTS HONOR THE MIND OF CHRIST.

RELIGION

If I was searching for religion, I would want truth. I would want something, that would bring me closer to God. So, I could understand myself, others, life, how to grow, how to love others, how to know what God wants. How to survive.

More then anything how to thrive in life.

There are so many reasons, to search in our spirituality, and to try and tap into religion, but I see, and I understand, why so many are turned off with religion.

Or how some get misled. Or fall into cults. Being gullible, wanting God, and believing those who say they know Him. Yet they get misled.

First of all lets just define what religion is, or what it is to me since, I am writing this:

Religion, is rules, regulations, rituals, traditions made by men and groups. These rules, regulations, are determined and maintained, by these people, without always having the benefit of truth, from say, a King James bible.

Its not really based on truth, or what God says, but what this group, or people, or persons have determined as truth, and has nothing to do with real relationship with God, through Jesus Christ.

These people leave out one great element, and that is love. Not the fleshy kind of love, from lust. I am talking about holy love. Love that comes from loving God first, then by love for Gods truth, His commandments. And just Him. And loving others. Strange how they leave that love out. And that it is a commandment. They leave it out. They say mean spirited things, that don’t sound like that love. You have to listen carefully.

The sad thing though, is many claim they do. They claim this is what God wants, or they claim this is what they believe scriptures say. They twist, manipulate scriptures, and either corrupt the truth, to base their thoughts on. But their is an element of deceit, in how they discern, or understand, what the scriptures say. They put their own slant on it, and thereby corrupting what the truth is. They pick and choose.

Beware of those who flatter, or tickle your ears, and don’t give complete truth. You need to know what the hell and brimstone message is, so you can repent, and get right with God.

Many churches, false leaders do not teach the fear of God. Nor do they teach what scriptures say about the consequences of sin. That there is a price to be paid, if one is not right with God, and that hell is the sinners destination.

Its here in the King James scriptures, in many other places, of this bible, and if you are not seeing scriptures on hell, in your corrupt revision. It could be you are not seeing it from a King James bible. GET A KING JAMES BIBLE. Its holy, and we are commanded anyway not to change it, so that means not using something that has been changed.

If you are not hearing that message clearly, at church, that is a spirit of religion, and I would leave that church. A true pastor will not only warn his parishioners about hell, but he will love them from the pulpit, like Christ would. Like a true shepherd, as Christ is.

I just saw a movie on Netflix, about a pastor, who departed from truth, and has an “inclusive” message, where he believes everybody is saved anyway. And where he did not believe there was a hell. And that message is so wrong. But I can only imagine when he meets a searching soul, who believes that nonsense, he will be used by the devil to deceive that soul. And the movie was good, but it lacked strong conviction, that this pastors message is wrong. As I viewed it, it comes from a place where its sympathetic. And sympathy is nice, but he still needs to see, his message misleads. And he is the blind leading the blind. He does become branded a Heretic. But its so vague, that only one who truly knows truth, could discern, the difference.

The movie is entitled: Come Sunday, if you are interested, in seeing it, and by what I share with you, maybe you can relate. Because if you saw someone standing by hells fire, you need to shout to them to repent, and get away from it. Because hell is real.

Maybe this is why I write. Because I see so many fall for false prophets, and their lies. They believe the wolves in sheeps clothing.

I want to warn you, now, to search for God yourself. Don’t let your mind, soul, spirit be swayed by lies, or part truth, and part lies. You need to search for God yourself. So you can know. Religion, will not do that.

Its a turn off to many. And I understand it. The worst kind, of religion, is when someone says they are a Christian, but they twist, and manipulate, pick and choose the scriptures they want, but leave out everything else God says. Religion. Rules made by men or women, to justify what they want you to think. And its wrong.

I have been seeing so many wolves in sheeps clothing, if you see some of my writings, lately, and what I have been writing, you can tell, I have been watching some in the body of Christ, who call themselves “Christians” and they have religion, instead of taking the truth of the gospel, and applying it to bring truth, to even those who would even listen to them.

So, if I was searching, which I am not, because I know truth, to set me free. One could be turned off, by these phony prophets, these phony Christians, and one might totally reject God, and thats so wrong.

I know the difference between religion and relationship, and I have relationship with Christ, by what He did on that cross, by my King James bible, and through prayer. By seeing, I needed to repent. By seeing, I need to fear God, and try to obey Him.

I am not searching, because I know God, according to my King James bible, by my own trial and error, and by repenting, clearing the slate. I know, because I do fear God, and thats something that keeps me out of hot water. But I search for my Lord daily, and that is where I know the difference. I know His voice, and to another, I will not follow.

AND WHEN HE PUTTETH FORTH HIS OWN SHEEP, HE GOETH BEFORE THEM, AND THE SHEEP FOLLOW HIM: FOR THEY KNOW HIS VOICE. AND A STRANGER WILL THEY NOT FOLLOW, BUT WILL FLEE FROM HIM: FOR THEY KNOW NOT THE VOICE OF STRANGERS.

JOHN 10:4-5 King James.

Look, I don’t know who my audience is here. But don’t let religion, or false prophets, or mean spirited Christians turn you off from God. Don’t stop searching for God.

You may have met someone who turned you off totally in this great quest for God, that you believe, that people who have “religion” have traits, that have shocked your senses. And that we are all the same. We are not!

And you don’t want anything to do with them. I understand that. I stay away from them too. But I do search for God, and He and I share, and I understand, what His truth is. You need truth, friend.

Don’t search for religion friend. Search for God, search for the relationship you can obtain, by truly searching for the King of Kings. Like I said, in my last post, about Joyce Meyers, one should follow Christ. Never a person.

I would start by just a prayer. Repenting, admitting, your sins. Asking God to cleanse your soul, asking God to forgive you. Telling, God you want to love truly, based on who He is, not what someone has told you. Or implemented as a rule for you.

See there are rules and regulations, His commandments and laws, and if you want to please God, you need to see yourself what they are, so you have to search. Don’t deny the law. Don’t listen to messages that tell you that you don’t need the law. We do.

I recommend a King James bible. For holiness. Those that read my writings, know, I promote this very much. Because I have seen the corruption, the compromising of changing the word, so it deceives. So use only a King James bible.

Pray to Him daily. And I also believe in daily repentance to God. Every day, we can sin, if we don’t repent. This keeps the slate clean. Talk to Him. He is your greatest friend. He will never leave or forsake you. He will be there, but you have the responsibility of maintaining the relationship yourself.

You need to keep it up, or you will get cold. If you have gotten cold, repent, start over, and begin maintaining the relationship with all your heart, soul and mind.

Grow, love, and always remember what Christ did for you on the cross, is not religion, but relationship, so you can be right before the Father, God almighty.

Yes, I understand how religion can turn people off. But you have a duty for your own soul, to search for God, in this thing called relationship.

If interested in reading my books via Smashwords, go to this link. My latest book. BEHAVIORAL CURSES THAT CHANGE INTO BLESSINGS WITH CHRIST. This book brings attention to the behaviors, one may have that can contribute to a curse. But by Christ it can change into a blessing. A must read for someone wondering about generational curses etc. And why we do some of the things we do….“HOW TO HAVE FAITH” This book is a self-help book to bring insight to your faith, and to know what pleases God. Both are on SMASHWORDS…..https://www.smashwords.com/interview/ElenaRamirezChristianauthorIf interested in ordering the Paper Back go to this link. http://howtohavefaith.wordpress.com

Yes, I do refuse to tell you God loves you the way you are. Because it is sloppy agape. Every one says, it, but where is the strong Bible teachings to have fear of God, or to obey? I don’t see it.

I did not see it, till I really saw the error of my own ways. But because I was at the bottom of the barrel.

Many people are there, as well, and they don’t know how to have faith, or to get out of that barrel. It can be too late for some! Tomorrow is not promised to any of us!

And that is another misconception. Because we should all live for God!

Yet we know, that God loves us, from John 3:16. He does love the whole world. But I refuse to tell you only that, because I see thoughts that say God loves you the way you are. That you don’t have to prove anything….

Oh they are so sweet in thought…..sugar coated.

But they are wrong in the sense they are deceiving. Because they do not stimulate you to grow. Or for you to see your sins and to repent. Even high profile ministries tell you just to accept Jesus and that’s it.

No!!!!! There is more to it. You have to learn, and unlearn bad habits.

You have to seek a holy word. You have to pray. We serve a mighty God, and his ways are not our ways. Do your part….And that’s why I warn people to use a King James. That has not been changed by mans thoughts! Work out your salvation with trembling and fear. Truth!

I am not going to give people a tickling of ears, or sugar coated gospel. The world has been deceived by the enemy. And where is the truth, that we need?

We are not getting it from the spiritual leaders we have. I am sorry, they are in LaLa land. Money, the prosperity message,has deceived so many. Watered down gospels, that have been corrupted by people, has deceived this generation.

You see I am from both generations, born in the 50’s, and taught the fear of God. And this generation from the late seventies, picked up those bible versions, that have corrupted truth. So I do see, the discrepancies. I see the lies! I see the deception! No God does not love us like this! He has better plans for us, if we would wake up!

More then ever, we need to search, and see our own hearts, and see Gods heart. We need to obey. We need to humble ourselves in the sight of God and man. We need each other. The body of Christ needs each other. But there is so much division. I don’t see the love.

Well I love you enough to tell you, yes God loves you, but not the way you are. I refuse to tell you that. Because if I just left it like that, you would not grow. And I tell you that, because every day, we should try and learn to be closer to Christ. As we grow on that vine. People who do not try and learn, are their worst enemies.

We will never, ever be good enough, unless that blood of Jesus cleanses us. The sacrifice of Christ was too great, and holy, and must be honored.

But that is a heart matter, that has to be taken to the cross in obedience for what Christ did, and it is not lip service. Wake up people! Are you going to be deceived by the enemy? The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom!

And just one more thought, that may just jolt you! Saved is not always saved. Without that repentance! You are lost! Your soul will go to hell. God does not condone sin. It is called being a backslider. Repent. I warn you in love. I want to see you in heaven. Read Ezekiel 33, from a King James. Yes God can take our names off of the Lambs book of life. Don’t be fooled thinking you are o.k. And that God loves you the way you are! Don’t!!!

As the year ends, of 2012, I want to declare who I am in Christ.

My relationship with Christ, is based on Gods love. And in fear of God. It is not religion. It is applied, in faith. My faith, comes from Gods word, the King James Bible. For it is Gods true word. It has been preserved for 400 years.

Religion, is rules and regulations, made by men, and organizations. My relationship with Christ is not based on rules, and traditions by men and organizations.

It is not based on any other Bible, then the King James Bible. For other versions, and men, publishers, have taken Gods word, and changed the text, they have changed the content. The meaning. Gods word, says, do not add or change it. This is a reminder of a curse.

I do not judge any one in this, but this is who I am in Christ, and I know who I am in Christ. But more then anything, I know the power of God, by His pure word.

I will not argue, or debate this with anyone. It is not meant to condemn, but I speak this truth from my heart. For it is who I am in Christ.

But I do pray, even by my understanding, and what I share, people would seek Gods true voice. But that is between you and God. Not me.

I tell you this in Gods love. This is my declaration, and I declare it, mindful, and heartful because of Christs sacrifice for me on the cross.

I tell you this in Gods love. For love, must be the main motivation, in all I do. For God is love.

Beloved let us love one another: For love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. I John 4:7

Just my Thoughts, Elena Ramirez

Father, I share who I am in Christ, for your glory. May you be glorified, in who I am, now, and in the New Year. And always. In Jesus name. Amen.

FOR IT TESTIFY UNTO EVERY MAN THAT HEARETH THE WORDS OF THE PROPHECY OF THIS BOOK, IF ANY MAN SHALL ADD UNTO THESE THINGS, GOD SHALL ADD UNTO HIM THE PLAGUES THAT ARE WRITTEN IN THIS BOOK, AND IF ANY MAN SHALL TAKE AWAY FROM THE WORDS OF THE BOOK OF THIS PROPHECY, GOD SHALL TAKE AWAY HIS PART OUT OF THE BOOK OF LIFE, AND OUT OF THE HOLY CITY, AND FROM THE THINGS WHICH ARE WRITTEN IN THIS BOOK. Revelation 22:18-19. +

The Fear of God.

Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased. If thou be wise thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shall bear it.

Proverbs 9:9-12

I know, God is bringing this to my attention to write about. The Fear of God. Are you wise? And if you are how? Do you fear God? Are you willing to receive instruction even now? To understand, like the scripture above says. Do you want to live a longer life? If you are wise, you will be wise for yourself. But just think of those that you will impact.

Oh but if you just look at this, and shrug it off, yes like the scripture says, you alone will bear it. Not only here, but when you stand before God.

The fear of God, that in itself, does put the fear of Him, in me. Standing before God. But I stand before Him now! Because I do bow before Him in fear. Yes I am afraid of God. For He is the keeper of my soul. But knowing, He is also the keeper of my life. I do not chance life. Without fearing Him.

For you see, we will all stand before God. We will all have to give an account of our words, our actions, our thoughts, our life….this will happen when we die.

I have noticed, and most assuredly, I know God has noticed too. That the body of Christ, really does not talk much about the fear of God. It is not taught. And again, when I make observations like this, it is because, of what I have seen in the body of Christ. It is because of what I have seen as I have attended churches. And I have been around the church block in my area of Colorado, a few times.

And I have not seen it or heard of anyone really teaching the fear of God. S0, I can only use that as a rule of thumb, to make this observation. But perhaps, you are a pastor, perhaps, you do as a Christian have the fear of God.

I have heard many people say, oh yes, I love God, I respect Him, but I do not fear God. He is good, He is kind, He is love. Yes, He is all those things. But He is mighty in power, and in strength. And I have to even add this here, but God is not mocked.

Ever wondered why things sometimes go wrong? It could be the enemy, but it could be God departing from a soul, because they had no fear of Him. And that gave “place” to the enemy. Look up that scripture. Ephesians 4:27. King James version.

Now read this, and understand…..

Be not deceived: God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. Galatians 6:7.

Many people are deceived. Because they live in this world, they do what they want. They take what they want. They say what they want, and some even go so far, to mock God. To believe the lies of the world. To believe there is no God. Or if He is there, He forgives. Yes, He forgives. But many grieve the Holy Spirit, because if they had that fear of God, they would not do and say some of the things they do. They are deceived.

The Bible tells us, and for the record let me say it here, the King James bible says, that we are to be aware, and not deceived. And I will add, many are deceived, because the word they read, is not of God. Its not pure. All of these different Bible versions, are so phony. They have been tampered with and changed and added, and deleted. And there is no way, the interpretation is of God. They are not Holy Bibles. Because men, have put their carnal hands to it. For money. So people here, are deceived as well…..

Let no one deceive you!

And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you: For many shall come in my name saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. Mark 13:5-6.

What do you think, it will be that obvious, for the devil to deceive someone? No he is tricky, he is a deceiver, and he thinks he is so smart, using even Gods word, to deceive people. By taking and adding, word, that God has commanded, he uses Gods word, to say, this is Christ. But it is not! Read Revelation 22:18-19. From the King James Bible.

I know Gods voice, and He is not the author of confusion. When I found out the discrepancies from the Bible, I quit using them. I did it in fear of God. Many of you have read my articles on this. Do a search. I have three articles On the Conspiracy, Bible static, and a Letter to my pastor.…here. These are the key words to search for them. In any event….

When you hear the Lords true voice. And you know, what you have been spared. And you see, how precious your salvation is. Because of what Christ did, you do begin to get the fear of God. For if we are deceived, we can lose our salvation. We can lose, our sense of direction. Of knowing Him. People do not know God. They do not search for Him. They do not realize the consequences of all of this, because they are deceived.

How I pray the body of Christ, would wake up!

Recently, the Lord, gave me utterance, and spoke to me, and told me, to tell another pastor, to teach the fear of God. And to change the Bibles he uses. I don’t know this pastor, I have seen him in passing, but will he do this? I do not know. I have told other pastors this same thing, and they did not heed the voice of God. They did not recognize me as the ambassador of Christ. But whether someone listens to me or not. I must be obedient to God.

I do it in fear of God!

And when you have that sense to be obedient, to seek God, to do whats right in His sight, according to His word, a pure word, the King James Bible. You hear His voice. And you know, that you know, you have to keep the fear of God, first and foremost in your being. It balances you. It keeps you on the right road. It changes your life. Your circumstances.

You then become a true vessel for God. You know, your righteousness is of God. Not of men, who have changed His word. But of Christ. Knowing Gods pure word, has taught me who HE is, so I can understand who I am. Because I know His voice, clearly, and to another I will not follow. But it does put the fear of God in me.

Yes, fearing God is healthy for you. And I pray, the body of Christ, would not be crippled, but healed. For Christ will return. And some He will take, and some He will not. Why? Because the fear of God was not in them?

So the question is…Do you fear God? I pray you do, for the sake of your soul.

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. Ecclesiasties 12:13-14.

Blessings, and love, in Christ,

Just My Thoughts, Elena Ramirez

My Prayer Of Hope

Father, you are Lord, you are the King of Kings. The keeper of my soul. You alone, have the power, to put our life back in order. To change things. To break curses, to deliver us from your enemy.

I do not even speak his name here, in your presence, because he deserves no glory or honor. But you Lord God, by your sweet Holy Spirit, and by our Lord Jesus, you teach us the fear of you our God. I DO NOT FEAR YOUR ENEMY LORD! I FEAR YOU!

How it must grieve you, that people are so misguided. They are so lost. Even Christians, who have given their hearts to you, are deceived. Lord, have mercy. Use me, use other pastors, bring truth, real truth, to set the captives free. You have provided it, but they overlooked it. They believed the lie. They took other books that may say it is your word, but it is not.

Lord, change things, change the body of Christ. In fear of you, my Lord, I speak this truth. I write it, because I know, some day I will stand before you. And what will you say? I pray, it is well done good and faithful servant.

Thank you Lord for my salvation. Thank you for everything. Thank you for giving me pure word to eat. For it is spiritual food, not junk food. It sustains me, it gives me life, it tells me truth.

Lord, I praise you and worship you, my true and living God. You know us, each and every thought. Lord may you see the fear of you in my heart, and others as they read this. In Jesus name. Amen.

CHECK OUT ELENAS OTHER BLOGS, FOR CHRISTIAN INSPIRATION SIGN UP HERE, OR ON THE BLOGS, TO RECEIVE UPDATES, AND PLEASE SHARE FOR THE GLORY OF GOD……

I am a Christian. An American Hispanic woman. Born and raised in the United States. A Conservative. I grew up as a Democrat, but now I am a Republican.

I love this nation. I love, our freedoms, even more so, because as a Christian, we have rights to serve God, with freedom. Not all countries have this right. There is a lot of persecution, for Christians around the world.

But, what I do sense, lately, is that in our society, and even here in the United States, Christianity, is not being defended. Our freedoms, are challenged. To pray, in public, to even acknowledge God, in the school systems, etc. This is being denied. This is reality. It is mocked, and many, do not value, the truth of Gods word. I believe, our country needs, an infusion, of God. To get us back on track. Because the truth of the matter, is our country, was founded, by our forefathers, to have religious freedom.

They say, you cannot mix, religion, and politics. And normally, I do not say anything about peoples political preferences. Nor will I, probably, after this. Because I respect peoples rights, to vote for who they want to vote for. I am not bashing anyone. Thats not who I am as a Christian. I want to walk in love, with all people. As Christ taught us.

But I do disagree with the thought, to a degree, that you cannot mix politics and religion.

Why? Because I see, the moral decay. I see, the spirit, in the United States, that right now, needs truth. Because a person, will lead, by their convictions. By the root, of who they are, Mr. Santorum, is a Christian. But, I believe, he would take to heart, that our nation, is based, on the foundation, that in the United States, we ALL have the right, to our religious freedoms.

Do I know, a lot about politics? No. I do not. But I know a lot about Gods word. I know, that a man, or a woman, is led by the spirit, in which it serves. Either good or evil. When I look for any characteristic in any one, I look at their track record. I look at what they believe, and who they believe in. I look, at what they stand for.

Rick Santorum, a former United States senator, is someone, who defends life. And believes, in family values. His stance, as a senator, who has written, legislature, to protect, unborn babies, probably will win my vote, just for that. (Against Partial Birth Abortion) He is also someone, who is truly a friend to Israel, and will help and protect this nation. God loves Israel, our Bible is established, with the knowledge of Israel. And God will bless those, who bless Israel. (The Syria Accountability Act) Documented from Rick Santorum’s official web page. http://www.ricksantorum.com/why-rick

So these are just some things, I see, that Rick Santorum, believes and stands for, as a Christian, and as someone who could effectively lead this nation. And I pray, the future president of the United States.

I just know, our nation, needs someone, who puts God first. In their personal life, and then to guide this nation, to have wisdom. To lead, effectively.

Someone, who will seek counsel from God. To guide this nation. Someone, who understands, the power of prayer. Someone, who defends those who cannot defend themselves. Helpless babies. Someone who believes, in the sanctity of marriage. Someone, who has strong family values. I believe I see that, immediately with Mr. Rick Santorum.

The word of God says, in Proverbs 14:34, Righteousness, exalts a nation; but sin is a reproach to any people.

Right now, I just see, there are so many hurting people. People who need jobs. People, who need help, but not a handout, but a hand to lift them up. To, help themselves. We need, someone, who will bring our jobs back to this country. Someone, whose values, demands respect. Yes, I would vote for Rick Santorum, just on these things I know about him. And I pray, that our country, would go back to the values, it was established upon.

I pray God bless America, but more then anything, I pray, America blesses God. We need to get back to the values, that blesses God. Not only for our nation, but for our personal lives. For our Salvation. Christ, is the way, the truth, and life. John 14:6

I pray, Mr. Santorum will become our new President, just by these values. He expresses. And His track record.

By the will of God, it will be, if it is meant to be. You see, God has a plan. I just encourage you, to vote, for truth. For liberty, for justice for all. Even for unborn babies, who want to live……Its not a choice, its a Baby.

And I want a president, who does understand this. Because if He honors life, He will honor God. And if he honors God, He will honor this great nation. This great country, the land of the free. The United States.

Just My Thoughts, with love, in Christ, Elena Ramirez

My Prayer of Hope….

Father, I pray for America, I pray, you bring the truth to this nation. I pray, Rick Santorum would bless you, and America. And if it be your will, he will become our next President of the United States. And Lord, whoever it may be, may they lead, with you on their heart. So America can get back on track. Help America, vote with the thought, for the helpless, the unborn babies, and for Israel, on their hearts as well. In Jesus name. Amen

CHECK OUT ELENAS OTHER BLOGS, FOR CHRISTIAN INSPIRATION SIGN UP HERE, OR ON THE BLOGS, TO RECEIVE UPDATES, AND PLEASE SHARE FOR THE GLORY OF GOD……

MY GRANDPARENTS THE BEGINNING OF MY AMERICAN HERITAGE

I am an American, this is my heritage. As an American, born and raised here, in the United States, and as a Christian, who just happens to be hispanic, I write this. My parents, were also American citizens. My Father, served in the United States Army. My mother, a nurse, served this country as well. Her parents, My grand parents were also American citizens. My heritage from my Fathers side, were also Americans. Part of that heritage, was by being American Indian.

I honor this country. I, as an American, treasure, and cherish my citizenship. There is no other nation, like the United States. With our freedoms, this is our heritage. We have rights. Our Constitution outlines our rights. So does the Bible. In God we trust. Or at least I do….So thats why I share this. “Just My Thoughts.” But thoughts I hope reflect, love.

The melting pot, of diversity and different cultures, from all over the world, has made the United States a place of refuge. Immigrants, from other lands, have fought and made their way here. This is part of our heritage. No other country, opens up her heart, and doors like ours. Yet, now, we have a big problem, will illegal immigration.

I care, about this nation. I care, because if you have been born here, you realize the freedoms, we have. And you want to see it’s borders, and ports protected. It is sad, that Arizona has had to take this matter, into their own hands, to protect themselves. But, I will just say right at this point, this is not the way to do it. This will cause racial profiling. And if something is not done before this law goes into affect, there will be some repercussions, that I dread to think about.

Yet, I believe, and want that protection for all Americans, I understand, the problems Arizona is having. I feel for them. They are being bombarded with problems, from this issue. They need to do something, but personally, I don’t think this is their problem, but our country as a whole. We should be United, and our Federal Government, should be doing their job.

So because this law will be in effect very soon, I cannot help and feel sympathetic to the “stranger” of the land. Immigrants. Whether illegal or legal. I at least, do not want to see people treated unkind, or unfairly. Discrimination, is ugly. Maybe thats why I am writing this. I see the problem, and I know, from my own heritage, we have suffered wrath because of discrimination. There are many testimonies of discrimination. Even, as Americans, in the early fifties, my parents, suffered that, and in so many other ways, I, and my parents felt the wrath of discrimination. That I won’t go into too much detail here. But one account, that always bothered me, was my dear Father, suffered discrimination, after a long trip, he went into a restaurant for a meal. And was denied food and service, because he was hispanic. He was dressed nice, but that did not matter. Did he forgive? Did he teach me to forgive? Yes. We forgive, but we ALL should be concerned. So, nonetheless we are Americans. So, I know, by my own indigenous roots, that discrimination happens. And I am very concerned.

Now let me clarify something. I do not condone, being in this country illegally. Disobedience, to our laws, will not be tolerated. Our protection, should be first priority. The borders, should be secure, and because we pay our taxes, already, as American citizens, we should expect from our country, the United States Government, to step in and secure those borders. And for whatever reason, those borders, have not been maintained, and secured. So when we see, Arizona, implement, a new law, that will very well, cause discrimination, the hairs, stand on my neck. Something is wrong. Why isn’t this first priority? I think we need to contact our congressmen and women, and demand, this be put on the forefront. But in the mean time, we need to walk in love.

For, when I see in the news, all the controversy, and the reports of this new law, in Arizona, I become concerned. And the only place, I know to search for truth to the answers is from the Bible. This is what the Bible says about treating immigrants.

Leviticus 19:33-34 When an alien lives with you in your land, do not mistreat him. The alien living with you must be treated as one of your native-born. Love him as yourself, for you were aliens in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.

There the Bible is telling us how to treat the immigrants. For Arizona, to take this law, and to stop people they think are immigrants, is racial profiling. They say they are not doing that, but that is a total contradiction. How else are you going to stop someone who looks illegal, but by seeing them and judging them by the color of their skin?

And also something to consider, do we as Americans, want to stop other Americans who are of hispanic descent, and make them prove their citizenship? This is not fair, not right, and will cause many problems. Can we not see this?

Now the Bible also has something to say about the way immigrants should carry themselves as well. Leviticus 18:26 But you must keep my decrees and my laws. That means everybody, needs to abide by the laws of the land. And yes, by Gods laws.

We are to honor the laws, as Jesus told us in Matthew 22 And they brought unto him a penny. [1] 20 And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription [2] 21 They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.

I just pray, whoever is reading this, from government officials, to American citizens, and yes even immigrants, that we would honor this country, and do that which is right, in the sight of God and man. For we will all stand before God, and this is an issue, that can no longer be just swept under the rug. As always, my prayer is God, bless America. But America, may we bless God. I pray, history, shows we took care of this, and in the right way.

All prayer requests, comments, and feedback is appreciated. If you would like to subscribe, you may do so, at the blog. This will ensure that you will receive them and will help me manage, and keep your e-mail address, safe from spammers. Etc.

I am seeking employment to write for your newsletter, blog or newspaper.

I know the one...who created heaven and earth. Who stops the waters at the shore....

Religion – Devotion to a religious faith, a personal set of institutionalized system of religious beliefs, attitudes and practices, a cause principle or belief held to with faith and ardor.

Please do not call it religion, to me, I call it relationship, this wonderful connection, that I have with Jesus Christ.

I tell you, and in all honesty, I get annoyed with the worlds perception, of this. Especially, when I try to explain my faith. They say something like….”Oh your religious.” And then they would get this smug, attitude. With me, and more or less alienate themselves from me. When I was weaker in my faith, I was unable to explain it. And I so wanted to. But I think I have grown in this relationship so much, that I think I can now. So bear with me, as I try and explain my definition of religion, and relationship.

I listed the definition of religion above, but thats not exactly my interpretation of religion. My definition, of religion is:

Rules made by men, or an organization, that represents, their God. But, in actuality, the relationship is not there, and all that is there are these rules, traditions, and rituals, that somehow, get in the way, of who God really is, and is so misinterpreted, in so many ways. That all you really see, is someone telling you about God, and rules about God, according to their standards, but the love wasn’t there, even at the organization. And they would not practice, what they would preach.

And Christ told us, according to the Bible, that we would know his people by the love. By the love we have for one another, and for him.

There are so many religions out there. Professing, to be the right way.

But there is only one Jesus Christ. And he is the way, the truth and the life. John 14:6

When I was growing up, in search of God, I went to many church organizations. And some would do some strange things, that even in my youth, I would question. And they would be under the guise of the name, of my Lord, Jesus. Now don’t get me wrong. Sometimes, I still learned. Now that I think about it, to be fair, and respectful, many of them did have good intentions. But they may or may not have had true foundation in the word of God. So many of them missed it. And to be honest, without that foundation of the word of God, implemented. It really does turn into religion. Whether you want to believe that or not.

Jesus told us in Matthew 23….But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy loads and and put them on mens shoulders but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. And do not call anyone on earth father for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. He says a lot more, about religious leaders who basically push people away from faith. By their actions. But as he closes that chapter he says...I have longed to gather your children together as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. But you were not willing. Sometimes, religion, can turn us off, and then we are not willing. But we have to see through that, and see Christ, and see through religion into relationship with him, instead. The only way we can really know who he is, is by developing our relationship with him, in prayer, submission, obedience, love, and his word.

I remember asking my mom lots of questions, when we would go to different churches. Different religions. Why do they do this or that? Like… why do they keep sitting down or standing up? Why don’t they read the Bible? Why do they bow to that statue, if the first commandment says, thou shalt not have false Gods? Why can’t you celebrate Christmas, or birthdays? Why would they snub a person publicly, because they were in some kind of sin? What if they were not in sin. Is it right to judge them? Now maybe you can see through some of my questions, and you can identify with what I am saying. You might even recognize some of the religions, I checked out. My point is not to criticize any organization. But the truth of the matter, is that I finally got tired of religion. And decided to find God for myself. And I have….

Now let me try and explain the “relationship” that I have. With Jesus Christ. It is not something, that I understood early in my walk with him. I just always knew, that I loved him. I was always curious about him. I could see at an early age, his creation, and that would always cause me to ask, how did it happen etc. Thank God my mom, was not a person, who did not believe, because she would tell me, it was God. So, I always had a thought, or an understanding, even though very limited, that God was in power. At an early age, I ventured into this search for God. Going to church’s with my mother. And we went to different churches, different denominations. Different….and it was always so confusing.

My first true teachings of the Bible came, when I was about 10 or 11 years of age. A Bible bus, came into my neighborhood. A local church, that loved the kids, would come, and they gathered the kids, together, and would take them to the park. They would have Bible studies, for kids, and they made it fun, and challenging. They would love us, and treat us kind. Sometimes feeding us. They would have contests, for the kids, to see who could learn the most Bible scriptures, by memory. And to see who could bring the most kids, with them. So you could win, pretty, ribbons, with verses on them, and the big prize, would be a Bible. So, I was pretty competitive. And I would win the Bibles. Trying to get kids to go there. Anyway, to make a long story short…that was the beginning of my understanding of God. As I grew older, and into a young woman, I wanted to have fun. Yes, just like the song….Anyway, I departed from those truths, I learned on that Bible bus. I wanted to do things my way. Those were the darkest, loneliest times of my life.

And after many years, of making mistake, after mistake, and falling into sin. I began searching for God again. This time, I decided, I was going to give him, my all and all, and not walk the fence. I decided I was going to search for him, and obey him. Instead of yes, having a head knowledge of him I wanted a heart transplant. So I gave my heart back to him, and rededicated myself to him. The Bible, is the voice, that brings understanding to me. That brings instruction, truth, and revelation, as to who God is. So I can understand him in this relationship I have with him. I have learned that God is a holy God, a sovereign, and loving, compassionate God. He has been faithful to me, by giving his life as a sacrifice, so I try to be faithful to him. I am not perfect. But he is. And he has shown me, in so many ways, his word is truth. And truly nothing is impossible with him. He has healed me, physically, and spiritually, so I truly am convinced of his power, and his presence. He may be silent, in some instances, but he is there. I know it. For when he does speak to my heart, in that small voice. He does not shout, he just speaks, and my heart knows. Whenever a negative thought, comes, and it does not feel right, he reminds me….”Elena what does my word say?” And then I know for sure, what to do, and gain peace. I gain instruction, and wisdom, that only he gives. I know that I know….because I know him. I give him all my cares, all my sorrows, all my fears, all my love. Reminding him, and myself, that I am now new in him, whenever, the past, or negative thoughts try to persuade me, that I am not his daughter. He shows me that I am. And as I try and do my part, in loving him, obeying him….In return he protects me, gives me peace, gives me hope, and blesses me, in big and small ways. That I just know, that I know, it is him. It is Jesus Christ.

I can go on and on, describing my relationship with him. But to be honest some things are personal, that only he and I know about. But I know I have a relationship with him. I know his loving voice. I know, the difference between relationship and religion. I don’t knock churches, or religions, if they help you. I do go to church, because I want to learn more about God, and because he says that we need to gather together. So I do. But every time I look for a church there is the criteria, that needs to be met. And thats the love….then I look for the rest. It has to be Bible based.

I know what Christ did for me, he became the sacrifice. Some religions believe that you have to give up your life, and become a martyr. Christ did that for me. So I know the difference. I am not the sacrifice. He was. He is the lamb of God, Jesus Christ, who takes away the sins of the world. Anyway, different strokes for different folks. Whatever you believe. Thats great. I never try to force my relationship on anyone. Truth of the matter, God is the same way. He gives us all the facts, the truth, but he is always a gentleman. He gives us a free will.

But when I finally decided to believe. He showed me more then I can even say. I just know the difference….and what I have is not religion. It is a relationship. Based on real love….that I see and know. Blessings, and Just my thoughts….Elena Ramirez

A Prayer of Hope….

Father, I thank you for the relationship I have with you. I thank you for just who you are. Almighty God. Lord, you could have left me to myself, to my sins, but you loved me so much, you sent your only begotten son for me. I am grateful, that because I believe. I know I have a place with you. Father, thank you for teaching me, and prompting me as well, so I do not turn legalistic, with your rules, and make this about religion. Its always about the grace you give in this relationship, so I honor you, and just ask, that you prompt me if I ever get legalistic or religious. I do not want to be known by religion. And I certainly do not want to hit people upside the head with the Bible. Your love does not do that. It convicts, but never condemns.

Lord, many do not know you. I want to be an expression of your love, I want to do all I can to just show you to them. Lord, you will do the rest. Help that person, who might be reading this, who does not know you. That they truly can have a relationship with you, and put aside the religion. They can know, the true and living God. Thank you Lord, my Father, my savior, my friend, and counselor, and healer, Thank you….In Jesus name. Amen

All prayer requests, comments, and feedback is appreciated. If you would like to subscribe, you may do so, at the blog. This will ensure that you will receive them and will help me manage, and keep your e-mail address, safe from spammers. Etc.

I am seeking employment to write for your newsletter, blog or newspaper.